At WRITERS AT WORK, we equip young writers with the tools to write creatively and confidently. One powerful tool? Idioms — those vivid expressions that say more than plain words ever could. But instead of using the same tired ones like “raining cats and dogs,” let’s explore 10 uncommon idioms that can make your compositions more exciting and memorable.
Whether you’re polishing your story for an exam or preparing for your next English writing class for Primary School, these expressions will help your writing stand out.
1. Add Fuel to the Fire
Meaning: To make a bad situation worse.
Example: Instead of calming Jake down, his rude reply only added fuel to the fire.
Use in writing: Ideal when tension builds in a story — perhaps during an argument or a misunderstanding.
2. A Storm in a Teacup
Meaning: A big fuss over something small.
Example: Everyone was panicking about the missing file, but it turned out to be a storm in a teacup.
Use in writing: Works well in stories where a character overreacts or jumps to conclusions.
3. Skating on Thin Ice
Meaning: Taking a big risk or doing something dangerous.
Example: He knew he was skating on thin ice by sneaking out after curfew.
Use in writing: Great for suspenseful moments or when a character disobeys the rules.
4. The Writing’S on the Wall
Meaning: There are clear signs something bad is about to happen.
Example: When the team lost their star player, the writing was on the wall for their championship hopes.
Use in writing: Adds a dramatic tone when things start to go downhill.
5. Let Sleeping Dogs Lie
Meaning: Don’t bring up old problems that could cause trouble again.
Example: She wanted to remind her brother about his past mistake, but decided to let sleeping dogs lie.
Use in writing: Use when a character chooses to avoid starting another conflict.
6. Barking Up the Wrong Tree
Meaning: To make a wrong assumption or blame the wrong person.
Example: If you think I took your pen, you’re barking up the wrong tree.
Use in writing: Works well in detective or mystery stories where characters jump to the wrong conclusions.
7. Steal Someone’S Thunder
Meaning: To take attention or credit away from someone else.
Example: Just as I was about to announce my award, she stole my thunder by shouting her news.
Use in writing: A great idiom when dealing with sibling rivalry or school drama.
8. The Elephant in the Room
Meaning: An obvious problem that everyone is avoiding.
Example: No one wanted to talk about the failed test — it was the elephant in the room.
Use in writing: Adds emotional tension, especially in stories about teamwork or family situations.
9. Out Of the Frying Pan and Into the Fire
Meaning: Going from a bad situation into an even worse one.
Example: I ran from the angry dog only to fall into a muddy drain — out of the frying pan and into the fire!
Use in writing: Ideal for adventure or mishap-driven stories with escalating tension.
10. Throw Someone a Lifeline
Meaning: To help someone who is in a difficult situation.
Example: When I couldn’t answer the question, Sarah threw me a lifeline with a helpful hint.
Use in writing: Good for moments when a friend, sibling or teacher helps the main character in a meaningful way.
Tips for Using Unusual Idioms in Your Composition
Now that you’ve got some new idioms in your toolkit, remember these tips:
- Use only one or two idioms per composition to keep your writing natural.
- Make sure the idiom fits the context of your story.
- Don’t force it — the idiom should make your writing clearer, not confusing.
- Practise with your teachers or in your Creative Writing Classes for Primary School to use them confidently.
Start Early; Start Now!
At WRITERS AT WORK, we teach students how to write compositions that get noticed — not just for their grammar, but for their style, structure, and expression. Our English writing class for Primary School curriculum includes strategies for using vivid vocabulary, dialogue, and idioms to craft high-scoring stories. When students learn how and when to use idioms like these, they write with flair and confidence — and they enjoy writing more too.
The right idiom, used at the right time, can turn an ordinary sentence into something powerful and memorable. The 10 idioms above aren’t just colourful expressions — they’re storytelling tools that make your writing more creative and more engaging.
Want to practise them with expert feedback and fun writing tasks? Join us at WRITERS AT WORK, where we turn young writers into strong, confident storytellers — one idiom at a time.
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English is a compulsory subject which all students must undertake. However, mastering the English language is not something which happens overnight – it takes consistent practice and effort to learn the nuances of the language. Students must read more and practice writing to gradually improve. Cramming for a language subject nearer to the exams is an impossible feat. After all, Rome was not built in a day! Attaining such a skill will have positive implications for not only your child’s education in school, but also employment prospects in future.
At WRITERS AT WORK, we are committed to providing the smoothest learning experience for your child sitting for their English exams. With our carefully curated methods of teaching your child how to write well, your child will learn how to present their thoughts and arguments in a coherent and concise manner. WRITERS AT WORK reinforces your child’s language skills and provides a strong foundation for their academic success, keeping up with all aspects of their progress both inside and outside of the classroom to nurture them holistically. For more information about how WRITERS AT WORK makes a difference, feel free to explore our website, watch our YouTube videos and catch us LIVE on TikTok!
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Long Should You Study for PSLE?
Parents should take around a year or two to prepare for PSLE as learning about subjects like English requires a long-term effort, as opposed to short cramming.
2. Is PSLE Compulsory?
PSLE is compulsory for everyone to enter secondary school in Singapore.
3. How to Study for PSLE?
Parents should make a list of everything a child should study for all their PSLE subjects. Engaging a tuition teacher or practising with workbooks and past year papers may help students tackle the exam format of PSLE and feel more confident taking the exam.
4. How Do I Motivate My Child to Do PSLE?
Children should be motivated to do PSLE by being taught that it is important for their future. Explaining to them the reasons to do the exam may work better than forcing them to study.
